Psychology Flashcards

A study component in which the subject receives the whole protocol outlining the experiment.

Answer: Experimental condition

In an experimental study, the 'experimental condition' refers to the specific set of circumstances or treatment that participants are exposed to, which is designed to test a hypothesis. The 'whole protocol outlining the experiment' details all the procedures, stimuli, and tasks that subjects in this condition will experience. This contrasts with a control group, which typically receives no treatment or a placebo.

What are your body and brain suited to do?

Answer: Keep you alive

From a fundamental biological and evolutionary perspective, the ultimate purpose and design of your body and brain are to ensure your survival. All complex physiological processes, cognitive functions, and regulatory systems work in concert to maintain homeostasis, protect against threats, and enable behaviors that promote the continuation of life. Therefore, their primary function is to keep you alive.

The first logical brain anatomy states that each side of the brain regulates the opposing side's apoplexy and strokes.

Answer: Thomas Willis

Thomas Willis, a 17th-century English physician, is credited with groundbreaking work in neuroanatomy. He was among the first to accurately describe the brain's structure and function, including the crucial observation that each side of the brain controls the opposing side of the body. This understanding was fundamental to explaining neurological conditions like apoplexy and strokes, laying a foundation for modern neuroscience.

Science of behavior and mental processes.

Answer: Psychology

Psychology is formally defined as the scientific study of behavior and mental processes. This encompasses a broad range of topics, from observable actions and reactions to internal thoughts, emotions, perceptions, and cognitive functions. It utilizes systematic research methods to understand why individuals think, feel, and act the way they do.

Theory of the push-and-pull interactions between thoughts, feelings, and behavior.

Answer: Psychodynamic theory

Psychodynamic theory, largely stemming from Sigmund Freud's work, emphasizes the dynamic interplay of unconscious psychological forces and early experiences in shaping an individual's personality, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It posits that these internal, often conflicting, drives and motivations create a 'push-and-pull' interaction that influences our psychological functioning. This theory highlights how unconscious processes can manifest in conscious actions and emotions.

First psychological laboratory was established; introspection was used; and the building blocks of consciousness were the emphasis.

Answer: Wilhelm Wundt

Wilhelm Wundt is widely recognized as the 'father of psychology' for establishing the first formal psychology laboratory in Leipzig, Germany, in 1879. He pioneered the use of introspection, a method where trained observers reported their conscious experiences, to study the basic 'building blocks' of consciousness. His work marked the beginning of psychology as a distinct scientific discipline, separate from philosophy and physiology.

Interview following a research

Answer: Debriefing

Debriefing is an essential ethical procedure conducted after a research study, particularly when deception has been used or potential distress might have occurred. During debriefing, participants are fully informed about the true purpose of the study, any deceptions employed, and the hypotheses being tested. This process ensures participants leave the study with a clear understanding of their involvement and helps to alleviate any potential negative impacts.